What is Geocaching?

Friday, August 5, 2011

Geocaching is all the buzz these days. For over ten years now, this family-oriented outing has been the buzz the world wide. So just what is all the fuss about?

Geocaching is usually an outdoor activity that makes use of global positioning system (GPS) to track hidden "treasures" placed by other geocaching enthusiasts. It is a great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors with your family or friends, and can be easy enough for the youngest child to participate. With some of the larger cache's there is an opportunity to take an object and leave something else. My daughter loves it when she finds something she can take!My daughter and I just got into Geocaching recently and I have to say that we are hooked! There is nothing more exciting than tracking a cache to discover it hidden out of site to most of the general public. With a GPS unit, you track the cache with specific coordinates provided by the individual that has hidden the cache. Because this is a world-wide phenomenon, it is common to see logged notes of the cache's discovery from people all over the world.

One great side activity involves the movement of an object that can be tracked online. That way you can see where your special object travels, and the journal is limitless! Referred to as geocoins, geobugs or travel bugs, these objects usually have a tracking id that you enter online when you find one. You can even note where you want the trackable to travel to. One recent travel bug I found was all the way from Germany!

If you are looking for a great way (or excuse) to get you and your friends and family out to get some exercise and fresh air, then geocaching might be just for you.

All the is required is a GPS tracking device, something special to leave in the caches, and maybe a pencil in case there is nothing to document your visit. As well, depending on where you are headed, a good set of shoes, maybe long pants, bug spray and a flashlight will all come in handy and you will be glad once you are out in the field to be prepared!

If you are looking to get started with geocaching, take a peek at some products that will compliment your outdoor experience!